Slowing down can minimize misunderstanding and prevent mistakes. When we slow down communication, we speed up understanding and clarity. We make fewer assumptions. We give ourselves a greater chance of absorbing the true intent in a conversation, and we are more likely to confirm what we have heard.
Lisa Cashion, LCMHC, NCC, founder of SparkWell Counseling, is a licensed counselor, life coach and educator who supports high achievers in designing a healthier, more balanced lifestyle.
SparkWell Counseling and Coaching provides energetic and solutionoriented support for individuals and couples who are looking for more clarity and balance in their lives.
Find out more about SparkWell offerings at sparkwellcounseling. com.
Treat yourself and your loved ones to a slower conversation. Slow your breathing, and slow your speech. Release the tension in your shoulders and sink into a big belly breath. Take turns speaking, and don’ t worry about a little silence.
Slowing down a conversation does the strangest thing— it creates clarity and focus. It makes us choose our words more carefully and speak more clearly. It helps us remember more. Slowing down invites engagement. Slowing down ultimately moves us faster toward meaningful connection.
LEARNING TO LISTEN WELL
Listening well takes practice. I don’ t know if we ever get it just right. Even when we make eye contact and slow down, the listening part is a challenge.
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